24/02/2026
It’s National Engineers Week!
Engineering is one of the most versatile career paths, as it's common for professionals to major in one discipline, yet find themselves thriving in an entirely different branch of the field. Whether that's civil, mechanical, or even electrical engineering, proving that the analytical and problem-solving foundation of an engineering education is transferable across virtually every corner of the industry.
In keeping with that theme of the versatility of engineering, we are honoring Emile El-Kallassy, a Project Engineer at OHLA USA working on the Package 5--ADA Upgrades project spanning 13 subway stations across New York City's five boroughs. Though he majored in mechanical engineering, Emile has found a natural home in civil infrastructure work, where his daily responsibilities include coordinating between field and office teams, reviewing drawings and specifications, tracking submittals and RFIs, and attending meetings with subcontractors and designers. He describes his role as heavily centered on problem-solving -- navigating design conflicts, adapting to site conditions, and ensuring all work meets contract requirements and safety standards. The ever-changing nature of large infrastructure projects is something he finds both challenging and rewarding.
Emile offers an enthusiastic endorsement for students considering careers in engineering. He feels that the career's unique combination of creativity, leadership, and problem-solving, along with strong job stability provides diverse growth paths in design, field operations, or project management. In his view, engineering and construction offer both professional fulfillment and a lasting, visible legacy.